Taipo River Heli-Rafting on the West Coast of New Zealand

Grade 4-5

The Taipo River is listed in Graham Charles’ New Zealand White Water book as being ‘one of the best in the country … stunning for scenery, good central location, excellent white water, a good length and a must do’. Hidden Valleys only started to run this river a couple of years ago and we are just as impressed with the river now as we were on the first trip.

A Journey On The Taipo River With Hidden Valleys

It works well to stay in either Arthurs Pass or Hokitika the night before so that we can get an early start to a full-on day.

You will be flown by helicopter from the take-out near the main highway, through Arthurs Pass to the headwaters of the Taipo river.

Often we choose to start the trip at Tumbletown Creek, giving us several kilometres of Grade 4/5 white water: technical, steep, lots of rocks, lots of drops!

There’s a fantastic lunch spot soon after, where we’ll stop for a break and a chance to take in your surroundings.

During the afternoon the river eases back to Grade 3 before we hit a stunnung gorge, a great way to finish off the day.

Ability

This trip is suitable for fitter people with a sense of outdoor adventure. You must be confident in water to safely and comfortably undertake this trip. Minimum age may apply.